Redondo & Manhattan Beach: 310-375-0514 | Not all causes of sleep apnea are a result of your environment. For some patients, sleep apnea is actually the result of genetic factors that are beyond their control. There are two main types of sleep apnea — central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea — and each has its own causes. Our team delves into the risk factors of the two types of sleep apnea to help you understand if you have developed this condition.
Central sleep apnea is the occurrence of irregular breathing patterns as a result of signals from the brain to the chest muscles being delayed or not received. During sleep, your chest muscles are supposed to receive brain signals that instruct them to move and help you breathe.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the result of a physical blockage in your airways during sleep. It could be caused by a poor sleep position or a barrier over your face, such as a pillow.
There are many causes of sleep apnea, such as enlarged tonsils or tongue. Patients at a high risk for sleep apnea are most often adult males, age 40 or older, but genetics, weight, a large tongue, a deviated septum, and allergy or sinus issues can also be factors to consider.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, contact Redondo Oral Surgery at 310-641-6124 today to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeons, Drs. Johnsin, Westernoff, and Mardirosian, to discuss sleep apnea treatment. Our team of specialists here in Redondo Beach, California, will be happy to serve you!